When it comes to buying fireworks, people often ask us for the biggest and loudest fireworks going – this is where firework categories need some explanation.

Firework categories are a way of classifying the quantity of gunpowder within each firework. This will determine how loud, how high, and how long each firework will last. Importantly, firework categories also dictate how fireworks can be sold, transported, and how they must be stored.

In simple terms, there are 3 main firework categories. Categories 2, 3, and 4.

Category 2 fireworks are ‘garden fireworks’. By British Standards, this means they only require a 5 metre safety distance and therefore they are most suitable for use in smaller spaces. They do not fire particularly high, and are not overly loud. This is ideal if using in densely populated urban areas – especially with children and pets around. This is not to say however that category 2 fireworks are boring. In fact here at Fireworks Den, our selection of fireworks in this category are still spectacular and extremely popular. For instance, check out this selection box. You get a lot of bang for your buck, and the variety is huge.

The next level up in the world of firework categories is level 3. These are known as display fireworks. They require a larger distance than category 2 (25 meters by current British Standards). They fire larger shots, and tend to be longer lasting. When purchasing these kind of fireworks, you have to think more carefully about the space around your display. Are there overhanging trees for example? Are there properties close by which could be affected by a firework with a ‘wide spread’? The choice of fireworks to buy in the category 3 range here at Fireworks Den is vast. These include some of our rockets and single ignition batteries. The largest firework for sale here at Fireworks Den is the great Maximum Showtime. This is a best seller every time – check out the video. Sit back and enjoy the show. Be warned, its impressive!

So you want EVEN BIGGER? Well this is where we move one stage further in realm of firework categories. Enter category 4…..

These are strictly for professional use only. Yes, that means they cannot be sold directly to members of the public. These are the ones you are likely to see over the River Thames on New Year’s Eve! They really do need to be used in safe hands – pyrotechnic experts in fact. If it helps, we do stock fireworks from the very same manufacturer who create the London New Year’s Eve displays – however it is their category 2 and 3 ranges only.

For those of you who like knowing about the biggest and best records related to fireworks –check this out.

If you want more information about firework categories, there is plenty of information here.

In the meantime however, please feel free to get in touch with us at Fireworks Den. Our firework experts are happy chaps who will be more than happy to help and advise you on suitable fireworks for you to purchase. We look forward to speaking with you soon! We are open 7 days a week all year round, and offer a delivery service within the M25.